Extractor Handle Interlock for Dual Fluid Spot Spraying
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surface cleaning apparatuses, such as carpet extractors, require users to frequently stop and reassemble hand tools for spot treatments, lengthening cleaning time and increasing user hassle due to the need for separate fluid delivery and recovery systems.
Innovation Solution
A surface cleaning apparatus with a dual fluid delivery system, including a primary dispenser and a secondary dispenser, controlled by separate valves and actuators on a handle, allowing for independent operation of different cleaning fluid concentrations and focused spot treatments without interrupting the main cleaning process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a single fluid delivery system is used for both general floor cleaning and spot treatment, then the device structure is simple, but the user must stop cleaning to manually assemble and manipulate hand tools for spot treatments, lengthening cleaning time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the general floor cleaning function and spot treatment function into a single integrated extractor device. The fluid delivery system includes both a primary distributor for general cleaning and auxiliary spray nozzles for spot treatments, allowing both functions to be performed without manual assembly of separate tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The extractor is designed to perform multiple functions: general floor cleaning through the primary distributor and spot treatments through the auxiliary spray nozzles. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate hand tools and manual assembly, improving cleaning efficiency.
2Ease of operation
If separate hand tools are used for spot treatments, then the fluid delivery system is simple, but the user must repeatedly assemble and disassemble tools, creating added hassle and reducing operational continuity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the spot treatment capability directly into the extractor body by providing auxiliary spray nozzles that are permanently mounted. This eliminates the need for users to assemble and disassemble separate hand tools, maintaining operational continuity.
Solution Approach 2:
The auxiliary spray nozzles are pre-positioned and pre-configured on the extractor, ready for immediate use during spot treatments. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for manual assembly during operation, improving ease of use.
3Adaptability or versatility
If auxiliary spray nozzles are added to the extractor, then spot treatment capability is improved, but the device structure becomes more complex with additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the fluid delivery system into two independent parts: a primary distributor for general floor cleaning and auxiliary spray nozzles for spot treatments. Each segment can be controlled independently through separate solenoid valves, providing versatility while maintaining manageable complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The auxiliary spray nozzles are positioned at specific locations on the extractor (front and rear edges) to provide targeted spot treatment capability. This localized approach enhances cleaning coverage for specific areas without requiring a complete redesign of the entire device.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple solenoid valves are used to control primary and auxiliary fluid delivery, then independent operation of cleaning systems is achieved, but the control system becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into separate solenoid valves for the primary distributor and auxiliary spray nozzles. This segmentation allows independent operation of each fluid delivery system, enabling users to select between general cleaning and spot treatment modes without interference.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient and convenient cleaning by allowing users to apply cleaning fluid to both large and small areas without interrupting the cleaning process, reducing time and effort through separate control of primary and auxiliary fluid delivery systems.
Implementation Method 1
The spray tip can project a spray of cleaning fluid forwardly of the cover
Implementation Method 2
a source of suction in fluid communication with the working air conduit to draw the cleaning fluid from the surface to be cleaned and through the nozzle and the working air conduit to the recovery tank
Data Source
AI summary
A surface cleaning apparatus comprising an extractor has a primary fluid delivery system and an auxiliary fluid delivery system. A first button on a handle of the extractor controls the delivery of cleaning fluid from the primary fluid delivery system. A second button on the handle of the extractor controls the delivery of cleaning fluid from the auxiliary fluid delivery system, which includes a spot sprayer mounted to the base assembly through which cleaning fluid is delivered. The handle is provided with an interlock between the first and second buttons so that cleaning fluid cannot simultaneously be delivered by both the primary and auxiliary fluid delivery systems.